Autism Consultant and Life Coach
MA Autism Spectrum | PGCert Autism Spectrum | DipSW
Social Work England Registered Practitioner (SW13398)
Hello, I'm Amanda.
I am an Autism Consultant, Life Coach and registered Social Worker with over 30 years' experience working alongside autistic children, adults and their families. My professional background spans health, education, social care and specialist autism services, giving me a broad understanding of the challenges and strengths associated with neurodivergence across the lifespan.
I qualified as a Social Worker through the University of Salford and later completed both a Postgraduate Certificate and Master's degree in Autism Spectrum at Sheffield Hallam University. I am trained in the use of recognised autism diagnostic tools, including ADOS-2, ADI-R and ACIA, and maintain registration with Social Work England.
Throughout much of my career, I have worked in senior roles within a national autism charity. More recently, I have supported a project in partnership with HM Probation Service, helping improve outcomes for neurodivergent individuals and reduce barriers to effective support within the criminal justice system.
My practice is neuro-affirming and person-centred. While my specialist expertise is in autism, I also work with individuals who have ADHD, recognising that many people experience overlapping autistic and ADHD traits and may benefit from support that takes account of both.
I offer a range of consultation, coaching and post-diagnostic support services, including:
- Supporting autistic and ADHD individuals and their families to understand and make sense of a diagnosis.
- Helping individuals identify strengths, understand challenges, and develop practical strategies for everyday life.
- Providing consultation to families, schools, colleges, employers and services to improve understanding, communication and support.
- Assisting with recognising and negotiating reasonable adjustments in education, employment and service settings.
- Supporting individuals to navigate challenges relating to relationships, wellbeing, independence, study, work and social participation.
- Attending professional meetings to help ensure an individual's needs are understood and appropriately represented.
My aim is to help neurodivergent people better understand themselves, build on their strengths, and access the support and adjustments that enable them to thrive.
